The Ford Bronco VI Raptor 3.0 EcoBoost V6 4×4 SelectShift, introduced in January 2022, represents the high-performance pinnacle of the sixth-generation Bronco lineup. Positioned as the most capable and powerful variant, the Raptor builds upon the Bronco’s foundation as a rugged, off-road focused SUV, aiming to compete directly with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. This model is significant for its advanced suspension, powerful engine, and aggressive styling, marking a return to the high-performance Bronco tradition of the first generation. It is offered exclusively as a four-door model, prioritizing both capability and passenger space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Bronco |
| Generation | Bronco VI Four-door |
| Type | Raptor 3.0 EcoBoost V6 (418 Hp) 4×4 SelectShift |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle, Cabriolet, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 160.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 418 Hp |
| Power per litre | 141.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 597 Nm (440.32 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2950 cm3 (180.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.4 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC; TIVCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.7 l (12.36 US qt | 10.29 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3107 kg (6849.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 507 kg (1117.74 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2041 kg (4499.63 lbs.) |
| Length | 4851 mm (190.98 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2177 mm (85.71 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2207 mm (86.89 in.) |
| Height | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2959 mm (116.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Rear track | 1869 mm (73.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 813 mm (32.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1077 mm (42.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 333 mm (13.11 in.) |
| Approach angle | 47.2° |
| Departure angle | 40.5° |
| Ramp-over angle | 30.8° |
| Wading depth | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 10 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 336×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 37 x 12.5 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Bronco Raptor is the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, designated as part of the Ford EcoBoost family. This engine utilizes a twin-turbocharged configuration with an intercooler, producing 418 horsepower and 597 lb-ft of torque. The engine employs direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (TIVCT) for optimized performance and efficiency. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the chassis. The 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission is specifically tuned for the Raptor, featuring revised gear ratios to maximize off-road crawling ability and acceleration. This transmission is known for its quick shifts and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque output.
Driving Characteristics
The Bronco Raptor’s driving experience is markedly different from other Bronco variants. The combination of the powerful EcoBoost V6 and the 10-speed automatic transmission delivers strong acceleration, both on and off-road. The revised gear ratios in the transmission provide excellent low-end torque for rock crawling and technical terrain. While the increased weight compared to the base Bronco is noticeable, the Raptor’s upgraded suspension and enhanced chassis rigidity contribute to a more controlled and confident driving experience. Compared to the 2.3L EcoBoost engine found in lower trims, the 3.0L offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more exhilarating driving experience. The automatic transmission, while convenient, may not offer the same level of driver engagement as the available manual transmission in other Bronco models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Bronco Raptor comes standard with a comprehensive suite of off-road focused equipment. This includes heavy-duty bash plates, reinforced rock rails, and a unique grille with integrated amber lighting. The interior features marine-grade vinyl and nylon upholstery, designed for durability and ease of cleaning. Standard features also include a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 4 software, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras include a hardtop roof, a winch, and various accessory packages for further customization.
Chassis & Braking
The Bronco Raptor features a significantly upgraded chassis and suspension system compared to other Bronco models. The front suspension utilizes a long-travel double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a solid axle configuration with coil springs. Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks are standard, providing exceptional damping and control over rough terrain. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors and calipers compared to the base Bronco. The Raptor also features an upgraded steering system for improved precision and feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Bronco Raptor has been well-received by automotive critics and enthusiasts alike. It has been praised for its exceptional off-road capability, powerful engine, and aggressive styling. Fuel economy, as expected for a vehicle of this type, is relatively low, averaging around 15-16 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392, the Bronco Raptor offers a slightly different approach to high-performance off-roading, with a focus on advanced suspension technology and a more refined interior. The Bronco Raptor’s reliability is still being assessed, as it is a relatively new model, but early reports suggest that the EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission are generally reliable.
Legacy
The Bronco Raptor represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the Bronco nameplate. It establishes the Bronco as a serious contender in the high-performance off-road SUV segment. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and 10-speed automatic transmission combination is expected to become a sought-after powertrain in the used car market, offering a compelling blend of power, capability, and refinement. As the Bronco continues to evolve, the Raptor variant is likely to remain a flagship model, showcasing the brand’s commitment to off-road performance and innovation.
